Payroll Administrator

Job DescriptionJob DescriptionWe are looking for an experienced Payroll Administrator to support a large healthcare organization in Knoxville, Tennessee. This contract-to-permanent opportunity is ideal for a detail-oriented payroll specialist who can quickly contribute in a fast-moving environment with a substantial employee population. The role focuses on delivering accurate payroll across multiple pay schedules while partnering with internal teams to maintain compliance, resolve issues, and support efficient payroll operations.
Responsibilities:
• Administer payroll processing for a large multi-state workforce of approximately 5,000 to 6,000 employees with a strong focus on accuracy and timeliness.
• Coordinate weekly, bi-weekly, and monthly payroll cycles, ensuring all payments are completed according to established deadlines.
• Calculate and validate complex pay components such as shift premiums, garnishments, special deductions, and employees working under multiple job codes.
• Audit payroll records before final submission to confirm completeness, proper earnings and deductions, and compliance with applicable regulations.
• Investigate payroll questions and discrepancies, determine root causes, and implement timely corrections.
• Work closely with HR, benefits, finance, and operations teams to address payroll-related needs and maintain reliable employee data flow.
• Prepare payroll reports, support reconciliations, and assist with internal or external audit requests.
• Contribute to process enhancements and help uphold best practices within a collaborative payroll team.
• Utilize payroll systems and workforce management tools, including Lawson and related software, to support full-cycle payroll administration.

• At least 3 years of payroll experience, including responsibility for full-cycle payroll processing.

• Proven background handling high-volume payroll within a large organization or enterprise setting.

• Working knowledge of multi-state payroll practices and federal, state, and local compliance requirements.

• Experience managing multiple pay frequencies, including weekly, bi-weekly, and monthly schedules.

• Familiarity with payroll complexities such as garnishments, special deductions, shift differentials, and multiple job assignments.

• Hands-on experience with payroll software and workforce management platforms; Lawson experience is strongly preferred.

• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills with close attention to detail.

• Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment and communicate clearly with cross-functional partners.

For immediate consideration please contact our Robert Half office at: and ask to speak to Brady Hawkins or Kelly Fellows